Department of Pediatrics

Message from the Chair

Welcome to Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and the Department of Pediatrics in Newark, NJ.

Founded in 1954 as New Jersey’s first academic department of pediatrics, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to exceptional clinical care for infants, children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. Our mission is to build a healthier future for all children by delivering high-quality care, expanding knowledge through innovative research, inspiring the next generation through education, and advocating effectively to enhance the well-being of children.

We recognize that nothing is more important than a child’s health, especially during this challenging era of increasing childhood poverty and children living with chronic health conditions. To meet these challenges, we have developed a partnership of diverse and experienced faculty from Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and Robert Wood Johnson Barnabas Health (RJWBH) in the northern region who provide exceptional care and educate our students at The University Hospital, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center (Children’s Hospital of NJ), both in Newark and Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston.

We are home to innovative pediatric research and programs. These include the heavy metal screening and developmental follow up for newborn infants using a dyadic approach, prevalence and early identification of autism spectrum disorder among children, the comprehensive targeted health research for adolescents and young adults (celebrating 50 years of service), Early Intervention Program (EIP), the newborn metabolic and genetic programs, Women’s Infant and Children’s (WIC) nutrition program, and the Center for Human Development and Aging, dedicated to advancing telomere research and its impact on lifelong health.

On behalf of our faculty, staff, and students, I welcome you to join us on the journey of commitment to pediatric clinical practice excellence, education, research, and advocacy for the health of children in the Greater Newark area and statewide.

Onajovwe O Fofah, MD
Professor and Chair